Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation (MSFN) is excited about the future after announcing the recent purchase of a pork processing facility called Country Choice Meats located in Duck Lake, Saskatchewan. The First Nation plans to venture into the business of processing meat for distribution across Saskatchewan, which they see as a positive development for the community.

The purchase of Country Choice Meats is a significant step for MSFN, as it marks their entry into the meat processing industry in Saskatchewan. With this venture, the First Nation aims to provide quality pork products across Saskatchewan while developing Indigenous engagement with industry. The purchase also allows for the opportunity to engage with Saskatchewan's food industry with a solid business foundation.

Jesse Morin, a business representative for MSFN, said the purchase is an exciting step forward for the First Nation. Not only is it one of the first First Nations to move into the meat processing business in Saskatchewan, but the venture will also be a First Nation-owned entity that will have retail products for purchase across Saskatchewan as well.

"This business concept and values are not new to Saskatchewan, in that, with First Nation ownership in the food industry, when you purchase a Country Choice Meats product, not only are you feeding yourself, but you're feeding a First Nation community," said Morin.

The purchase of Country Choice Meats is also a meaningful economic approach to developing food sovereignty, not only for MSFN but for First Nation communities across Saskatchewan. According to then-chief Ronald Mitsuing, "It is a meaningful economic approach to developing food sovereignty – not only for our own community but for First Nation communities across Saskatchewan."

MSFN's move into the meat processing industry is a step towards economic independence and food security for the First Nation. It allows them to build a solid business foundation and create long-lasting relationships across Saskatchewan. The purchase is an exciting venture that reflects the First Nation's commitment to building a sustainable future for its people.